Microloans expand NH farm finance options

fosters.com

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Posted Feb. 1, 2013 at 3:15 AM

Posted Feb. 1, 2013 at 3:15 AM

CONCORD — New and beginning farmers in New Hampshire now have an agricultural Microloan credit option to consider. As of Jan. 15, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) will offer its customers a Microloan designed to help farmers and ranchers with credit needs of $35,000 or less. The loan features a streamlined application and a simplified qualification process built to fit the needs of new and smaller producers.

“This innovative offering will be more customer-friendly than our larger, more traditional loan programs,” said Jay Phinizy, NH State Executive Director. “Farms and ranches seeking a smaller loan for start-up or operational needs now have a great new tool to consider.”

“For those selling at Farmers’ Markets or through community-supported agriculture operations (CSAs), a Microloan might serve their needs perfectly,” Phinizy noted. “The reduced paperwork associated with the new Microloan definitely will help expedite the process for everyone.”

In 2012, the Farm Service Agency provided $2.9 million in farm loan assistance to agricultural producers of all sizes in New Hampshire. That year, operating loans accounted for the majority of the loans extended 25 direct operating loans for a total of $1.5 million, while farm ownership loans were fewer at 4 direct loans totaling $815,000.

“The interest rate of 1.25 percent on the new FSA Microloan is also a great benefit for farmers who are just starting out, in need of capital to grow their farm or are on a tight budget,” according to Phinizy. “Producers in every county in the state can contact their nearest FSA office for details and to determine if they qualify for a Microloan.”

The Microloan term can be up to seven years.

In response to tighter financial markets, USDA has expanded the availability of farm credit, helping farmers refinance loans across the U.S.

Since 2009, USDA has provided more than 128,000 loans to family farmers totaling more than $18 billion. Over 50 percent of the loans went to beginning and socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers.

For more information on Microloans and other FSA programs, please contact your local USDA service center. In New Hampshire, search online for “FSA NH Home” and follow links to find the closest service center.

There are five FSA offices conveniently located across the state to help New Hampshire’s Farmers.